loudspeaker

American  

[loud-spee-ker] / ˈlaʊdˌspi kər /

noun

1. any of various devices, usually electronic, by which speech, music, etc., can be intensified and made audible throughout a room, hall, or the like.

2. Audio.

   1. a device for transforming electric signals into audible sound, most frequently used to reproduce speech and music.

   2. speaker.

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loudspeaker British  

/ ˌlaʊdˈspiːkə /

noun

1. Also called: reproducer.  Sometimes shortened to: speaker.  a device for converting audio-frequency signals into the equivalent sound waves by means of a vibrating conical diaphragm

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Etymology

Origin of loudspeaker

First recorded in 1880–85; loud + speaker

Example Sentences

This technique records electrical activity between the inner ear and the brain using small electrodes placed on the animals while short bursts of sound are played through a small loudspeaker.

From Science Daily • Mar. 12, 2026

“It’s really, really hard,” he said, as a worker called customer order numbers over the loudspeaker in Spanish and English.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

A line of police buses stopped them reaching the gates, but a stage and loudspeaker ensured their voices would soar above Gwanghwamun square and within earshot of US President Donald Trump's representatives.

From BBC • Oct. 28, 2025

As an imam led prayers through a loudspeaker, the worshippers seemed absorbed in devotion, despite the mosque's gaping walls and exposed frame.

From Barron's • Oct. 17, 2025

The loudspeaker beeped and a voice came on: a woman was missing; the entire barracks would stand on the Lagerstrasse until she was found.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

Related Words

• bullhorn
• megaphone
• public address system